Mid Century Formica
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3,153
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374
1,752
1,387
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3,172
2,874
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3,141
65
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2,644
391
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858
925
305
39
2
2,418
2,318
2,125
1,631
548
2,012
892
859
633
290
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Mid-Century Formica Dining Table
By Broyhill Brasilia
Located in Dallas, TX
Vintage round dining table with white formica and round glass top. Great compact size for any
Category
Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables
Materials
Formica, Wood
Gardella Midcentury Formica Steel and Brass Table, Laminati Plastici Italy 1950s
By Ignazio Gardella
Located in Roma, IT
Amazing midcentury formica steel and brass finishes table. This wonderful piece was produced in
Category
Vintage 1950s European Mid-Century Modern Tables
Materials
Brass, Iron
H 29.93 in W 50.79 in D 23.63 in
Mid Century Formica and Iron Cafe Dining Table
Located in New York, NY
. Faux wood grain formica tops, having a beveled edge, and gold tone rim. Bases are heavy cast iron
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables
Materials
Iron
French Midcentury Formica Dinette Set by SIF
Located in Atlanta, GA
French Midcentury Retro Kitchenette Set in a daring powder blue formica from the SIF brand made
Category
Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Sets
Materials
Chrome
Midcentury Formica Writing Desk, 1960´s, Czechoslovakia
Located in Prague 8, CZ
Mid century writing desk with one drawer. It has chromed legs and formica top.
Very simple
Category
Mid-20th Century Czech Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Chrome
Mid Century Formica and Wood Stool, 1960´S, Czechoslovakia
Located in Prague 8, CZ
formica.
It is in good Vintage condition, showing slight signs of age and using(few scratches on the
Category
Mid-20th Century Czech Mid-Century Modern Stools
Materials
Fabric, Wood, Beech
1960’s mid century Formica extending dining table by Schreiber
By Schreiber
Located in London, GB
unextended 96cm
Depth 137cm
Height 74cm
Condition:
Very good mid century condition, only minor signs of wear
Category
Mid-20th Century British Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables
Materials
Formica, Beech
Midcentury Formica and Wood Central Table, Czechoslovakia, 1960's
Located in Prague 8, CZ
Mid-century central table with a formica plate, beech legs and one drawer. It can be used as a
Category
Mid-20th Century Czech Mid-Century Modern Center Tables
Materials
Formica, Wood, Beech
Mid Century Formica and Spruce Wood Plant Stand, 1960´s
Located in Prague 8, CZ
Mid-century stand for flowers. It reflects the aesthetic ‘Brussel period’ of after EXPO 58.
An
Category
Mid-20th Century Czech Mid-Century Modern Side Tables
Materials
Laminate, Wood, Spruce
Mid Century Formica and Beech Wood Coffee Table, 1960´s, Czechoslovakia
By Interiér Praha
Located in Prague 8, CZ
Mid century opaxite glass coffee table from the 1960´s. Associated with the world-renowned
Category
Mid-20th Century Czech Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Formica, Wood, Beech
H 23.23 in W 44.49 in D 20.87 in
Mid century formica writing desk or side table, 1960´s, Czechoslovakia
Located in Prague 8, CZ
Mid century writing desk or side table, it features a formica surface and chromed legs and one
Category
Mid-20th Century Czech Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Metal, Chrome
H 30.32 in W 43.31 in D 27.56 in
Midcentury Formica and Wood Central Table, Czechoslovakia, 1960´s
Located in Prague 8, CZ
Mid Century central table with a formica plate, beech legs and one drawer. It can be used as a
Category
Mid-20th Century Czech Mid-Century Modern Center Tables
Materials
Fabric, Wood, Beech
1960’s mid century Formica dining table and dining chairs by Schreiber
By Schreiber
Located in London, GB
mid century condition, only minor signs of wear reflecting age and use.
We make sure that any damage
Category
Mid-20th Century British Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Sets
Materials
Faux Leather, Formica, Beech
H 29.14 in W 55.91 in D 53.94 in
Midcentury Formica and Ceramic Box by Einar Johansen & Søholm for Torben Ørskov
By Einar Johansen
Located in Esbjerg, DK
shallow relief, box-sides in solid rosewood upon af plate in black formica. The lid was designed by
Category
Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Decorative Boxes
Materials
Ceramic, Formica
H 1.7 in W 4.34 in D 4.34 in
Mid-Century, Danish Style, Formica, Teak Wood Effect, Wall Mirror
Located in Glasgow, GB
Formica with a teak-wood effect, typical of the material usage from the mid-century era.
The mirror is
Category
Vintage 1960s British Mid-Century Modern Wall Mirrors
Materials
Plastic
No Reserve
H 23.23 in W 15.36 in D 0.79 in
Ico Parisi Midcentury Aluminum and Formica Trolley Magazine Rack for MB, 1960s
By Ico Parisi, MB Italy
Located in Roma, IT
Elegant midcentury formica and aluminium magazine rack trolley with design wheels. This fantastic
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Brass, Metal, Aluminum
H 23.63 in W 22.05 in D 9.85 in
Mid-Century Deco Modern Formica Rosewood Cabinet
Located in Forney, TX
An impressive, very good quality mid-century cabinet, Art Deco Moderne taste, finished in stunning
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Cabinets
Materials
Formica, Rosewood
2-Piece Mid Century Walnut and Formica Desk
By Herman Miller, Jens Risom, George Nelson
Located in Las Vegas, NV
This authentic mid century original is the perfect multitasking furniture piece where space is
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Desks
Materials
Aluminum
Mid Century Wooden and Formica Central Table, Czechoslovakia, 1950s
Located in Prague 8, CZ
Mid century side table with one drawer. It was made in the former Czechoslovakia in the 1950´s. The
Category
Mid-20th Century Czech Mid-Century Modern Center Tables
Materials
Formica, Wood
Mid-Century Mersman Teak and Formica Top Three-Tier Side Table
By Mersman
Located in Germantown, MD
1960s Mersman Furniture three Tier Formica top and Teak table. May be used as coffee table, Side
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Side Tables
Materials
Formica, Teak
Johnson Carper Mid Century Walnut Formica Top 4 Drawer Chest Dresser Highboy
By Johnson Carper
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Johnson Carper mid century walnut formica top 4 drawer chest dresser highboy. Item features formica
Category
Mid-20th Century North American Mid-Century Modern Dressers
Materials
Formica, Walnut
Mid-Century Modern Biomorphic Side Table with Formica Top
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Fabulous original 1950s biomorphic three-tier Mid-century side table. The table features marbleized
Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Side Tables
Materials
Brass
Mid Century Burlwood Formica Dining Table with Chrome Legs
Located in Countryside, IL
Mid century burlwood formica dining table with chrome legs
Table measures: 53.75 wide x 41.75 deep
Category
Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables
Materials
Chrome
Mid century wooden and formica kitchen table, Czechoslovakia, 1950´s
Located in Prague 8, CZ
Mid century kitchen table with one drawer with a chrome handle as an interesting design element
Category
Mid-20th Century Czech Mid-Century Modern Tables
Materials
Formica, Wood
H 31.11 in W 43.31 in D 27.56 in
Mid Century Wooden and Formica Central Table, Czechoslovakia, 1960's
Located in Prague 8, CZ
Mid century side table with one drawer. It was made in the former Czechoslovakia in the 1960´s. The
Category
Mid-20th Century Czech Mid-Century Modern Center Tables
Materials
Wood, Formica
Mid-Century Modern Triangle Trolley Brass and Formica Wood
Located in Weiningen, CH
Mid-Century Modern triangle trolley brass and formica wood.
Category
Vintage 1950s German Mid-Century Modern Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Brass
Mid-Century Table with Drawer, Beechwood, Top Formica, Ico Parisi attributed
By Ico Parisi
Located in Vigonza, Padua
Elegant Mid-Century Modern table with drawer, in beechwood, top in formica, Ico Parisi attributed
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Tables
Materials
Formica, Beech
H 31.89 in W 63 in D 31.5 in
Funky Mid-Century Modern Rattan and Formica Bar Cart
Located in Hopewell, NJ
Funky midcentury bar cart comprised of wood, rattan and formica. This cart is designed to hold
Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Wood, Rattan, Formica
Mid-Century Modern Lucite and Formica Wall Unit, circa 1980s
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Large modular Mid-Century Modern wall unit offering multiple flexible storage options. Impressive 1
Category
Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Shelves and Wall Cabinets
Materials
Formica, Lucite
Vintage Formica Compass Coffee/Side Table, Manner Of Fornasetti, Mid Century
Located in Bristol, GB
MID-CENTURY CIRCULAR TABLE
A good quality Formica-topped table with an elegant and stylish black
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Metal, Brass, Steel
H 18.12 in W 22.05 in D 22.05 in
Mid-Century Italian Mahogany and Formica End / Side Tables (Style of Gio Ponti)
By Gio Ponti
Located in New York, NY
Italian Mid-Century (1950s) mahogany end / side table featuring a high slanted back, slate blue
Category
20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Side Tables
Materials
Formica, Wood
H 34.5 in W 31.5 in D 20 in
Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Hardwood and Formica Side Table, Brazil, 1960s
Located in Deerfield Beach, FL
Brazilian Mid-Century Modern hardwood and Formica round side table, Brazil, 1960s.
Structured in
Category
Vintage 1960s Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Side Tables
Materials
Hardwood, Formica
H 15.75 in W 16.15 in D 16.15 in
Richard McCarthy for Selrite Style Formica & Iron Mid Century Dining Table
By Selrite, Richard McCarthy
Located in Countryside, IL
Richard McCarthy for Selrite Style Formica & iron mid century dining table
Table measures: 48 wide
Category
Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables
Materials
Iron
Milo Baughman Style Mid Century Burlwood Formica and Glass Coffee Table
By Milo Baughman
Located in Countryside, IL
Milo Baughman style Mid Century burl wood Formica and glass coffee table
Coffee table measures: 28
Category
Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Formica, Glass
Italian mid-century Chairs Paulista in yellow, red, black formica metal, 1960s
Located in MIlano, IT
Italian mid-century modern Chairs Paulista in yellow, red, black formica and black tubolar metal
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs
Materials
Metal
H 32.09 in W 14.97 in D 17.72 in
Small Mid Century Italian Desk in Metal, Walnut and Formica, around 1950
By Gio Ponti
Located in Berlin, DE
A charming relic from the mid-20th century, this Small Italian Desk embodies the essence of mid
Category
Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Metal, Brass
H 30.32 in W 42.92 in D 23.63 in
Pair of Mid-Century Modern Kai Kristiansen Style Formica Top Cube Side Tables
By Kai Kristiansen
Located in Weymouth, MA
Pair of Kai Kristiansen style wooden cube side tables with black formica tops. Sturdy hand crafted
Category
Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Side Tables
Materials
Formica, Wood
H 16 in W 18 in D 18 in
Mid-Century Golden Aluminum and Formica Italian Bar Cart with Pictures, 1950s
Located in Roma, IT
Unique mid-century golden aluminium and formica vintage cart. This fantastic item was produced in
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Aluminum
H 24.02 in W 14.77 in D 22.84 in
Italian Mid-Century Modern Bar Cart in wood Cherry and top Formica.
Located in Vigonza, Padua
Elegant Mid-Century Modern bar cart , age 1950s in wood cherry and top in formica with chromed
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Formica, Cherry
Italian mid-century Sideboard or bar cabinet in beige formica and wood, 1960s
Located in MIlano, IT
Italian mid-century modern Sideboard or bar cabinet in beige formica and wood, 1960s
Sideboard or
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Dry Bars
Materials
Formica, Wood
H 41.74 in W 25.2 in D 11.82 in
Milo Baughman for Thayer Coggin Formica Red Side Coffee Table 1960s Mid Century
By Milo Baughman
Located in London, GB
A slightly rectangular/near square side table with eye-catching coral red colour made from formica
Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Formica, Wood
H 20.08 in W 30.12 in D 23.82 in
1950s Mid-Century Table with Drawer, Solid Beech, Top in Formica, Brass Feet
Located in Vigonza, Padua
Iconic Italian midcentury modern table with drawer in solid beech with the top in formica by
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables
Materials
Brass
H 31.5 in W 63 in D 31.89 in
80s Mid-Century Modern Black Formica Swivel Top Sculpture Stand Column Pedestal
Located in Miami, FL
and heavy stand for your favorite Mid-Century Modern sculptures or kitchen or electronic appliances.
Category
Late 20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Pedestals
Materials
Formica, Wood
H 24 in W 18.5 in D 15.5 in
Midcentury Brass and Formica Rolling Cart
Located in Germantown, MD
A midcentury Brass and Formica top Rolling Cart. Measures 25" in width, 13.5" in depth and stands
Category
Mid-20th Century Unknown Mid-Century Modern Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Brass
Vintage Mid-Century Modern Laminate Formica Case Credenza Cabinet Buffet
By Florence Knoll
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Mid-Century Modern laminate formica case 72" Credenza cabinet buffet. Item features cane
Category
Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Credenzas
Materials
Metal
Mid-Century One-Off Dining or Game Table with Blue Formica Top by Giulio Alchini
Located in Koper, SI
piece, signed under the top, by artist and designer Giulio Alchini. The use of such a light blue formica
Category
Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables
Materials
Formica, Beech
H 30.71 in W 33.47 in D 33.47 in
Pair of Mid-Century Modern Stools Chairs Made of Glass, Formica and Brass, 1960s
Located in Rome, IT
Formica. The cow seat cover can be removed, such as the glass of the seat.
Measures: Height while seating
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chairs
Materials
Cement, Brass
H 25.6 in W 15.75 in D 14.97 in
Swedish Square Formica Table
Located in Brescia, IT
Scandinavian modern antique dining table.
A typical mid-century piece of furniture is
Category
Vintage 1960s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Dining Room Tables
Materials
Formica, Wood
Vintage Formica & Walnut Step Tables
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Absolutely fantastic pair of unique formica & walnut end tables. A funky two-tiered design is as
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Side Tables
Materials
Brass
Mid-Century 1960s Wood & Formica Dressers Set - White & Black Lacquer Finiish
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Introducing our stunning pair of 1960s Mid-Century Modern Dressers, a perfect blend of classic
Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dressers
Materials
Steel, Metal
H 31 in W 33 in D 18 in
Formica bar 1950’s , France
Located in PÉZENAS, FR
magnificent Formica bar from the 1950s which belonged to a great French singer "Claude Francois
Category
Mid-20th Century French Industrial Dry Bars
Materials
Aluminum
Italian Mid Century Creamy White Wood and Aquamarine Formica Kitchen Table, 1940
Located in MIlano, IT
Italian mid century creamy white wood and aquamarine formica kitchen table, 1940s
Kitchen table
Category
Vintage 1940s Italian Mid-Century Modern Serving Tables
Materials
Laminate, Wood
H 31.5 in W 63.39 in D 32.29 in
Letto Anni 60 Formica Impiallacciatura Mogano
By Non-Standard Furniture and Lighting
Located in Milano, IT
Letto matrimoniale in legno impiallacciato mogano e formica; un letto da personalizzare con la
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Beds and Bed Frames
Materials
Formica, Mahogany
Charlotte Perriand, Mid-Century Modern, Wood Formica and Metal Table, circa 1950
By Charlotte Perriand
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
Charlotte Perriand table, designed for la chambres d'étudiant del la Maison du Brésil, Cité Internationale Universitaire de Paris.
Manufactured, circa 1950.
In original conditi...
Category
Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Tables
Materials
Metal
H 28.94 in W 31.5 in D 31.5 in
Czechoslovak Colored Formica Cafe Chair, 1960's
Located in Prague 8, CZ
Mid-century color formica cafe or dining chair with chrome legs. Made in the 1960’s. In very good
Category
Mid-20th Century Czech Mid-Century Modern Chairs
Materials
Chrome
Italian, Wall Hanger Brass Hooks on Formica
Located in Los Angeles, CA
wall hanger on the original 1950s Formica . Brass hooks .
Category
Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Brackets
Materials
Brass
Scrittoio anni '60 in teak e formica
Located in SAN PIETRO MOSEZZO, NO
sempre in legno di teak con con frontalino in formica bianca anche il top è in formica di colore rosso
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Iron
60's Formica Pedestal Dining Game Table
Located in Lake Worth, FL
Offering One Of Our Recent Palm Beach Estate Fine Furniture Acquisitions Of A 1960's Mid Century
Category
Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables
Materials
Formica, Wood
1960s Dining Table with Formica Top
Located in Brescia, IT
Vintage Scandinavian table made of birch wood and formica top.
A typical mid-century piece of
Category
Vintage 1960s Scandinavian Scandinavian Modern Dining Room Tables
Materials
Formica, Birch
Burl Wood Formica Parsons Console Table
By Milo Baughman
Located in Redding, CT
Burl Wood Formica Parsons Console Table. Amazing colors and texture to this petite console table
Category
Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Console Tables
Materials
Formica, Wood
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Mid Century Formica For Sale on 1stDibs
At 1stDibs, there are many versions of the ideal mid century formica for your home. Frequently made of laminate, formica and wood, every mid century formica was constructed with great care. Find 1192 options for an antique or vintage mid century formica now, or shop our selection of 3 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished piece. There are many kinds of the mid century formica you’re looking for, from those produced as long ago as the 19th Century to those made as recently as the 21st Century. When you’re browsing for the right mid century formica, those designed in Mid-Century Modern, Scandinavian Modern and Art Deco styles are of considerable interest. You’ll likely find more than one mid century formica that is appealing in its simplicity, but Herman Miller, George Nelson and Cees Braakman produced versions that are worth a look.
How Much is a Mid Century Formica?
Prices for a mid century formica can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, they begin at $165 and can go as high as $55,271, while the average can fetch as much as $2,162.
A Close Look at Mid-Century Modern Furniture
Organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple are three terms that well describe vintage mid-century modern furniture. The style, which emerged primarily in the years following World War II, is characterized by pieces that were conceived and made in an energetic, optimistic spirit by creators who believed that good design was an essential part of good living.
ORIGINS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN
- Emerged during the mid-20th century
- Informed by European modernism, Bauhaus, International style, Scandinavian modernism and Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture
- A heyday of innovation in postwar America
- Experimentation with new ideas, new materials and new forms flourished in Scandinavia, Italy, the former Czechoslovakia and elsewhere in Europe
CHARACTERISTICS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN
- Simplicity, organic forms, clean lines
- A blend of neutral and bold Pop art colors
- Use of natural and man-made materials — alluring woods such as teak, rosewood and oak; steel, fiberglass and molded plywood
- Light-filled spaces with colorful upholstery
- Glass walls and an emphasis on the outdoors
- Promotion of functionality
MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNERS TO KNOW
- Charles and Ray Eames
- Eero Saarinen
- Milo Baughman
- Florence Knoll
- Harry Bertoia
- Isamu Noguchi
- George Nelson
- Danish modernists Hans Wegner and Arne Jacobsen, whose emphasis on natural materials and craftsmanship influenced American designers and vice versa
ICONIC MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNS
- Eames lounge chair
- Nelson daybed
- Florence Knoll sofa
- Egg chair
- Womb chair
- Noguchi coffee table
- Barcelona chair
VINTAGE MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE ON 1STDIBS
The mid-century modern era saw leagues of postwar American architects and designers animated by new ideas and new technology. The lean, functionalist International-style architecture of Le Corbusier and Bauhaus eminences Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Walter Gropius had been promoted in the United States during the 1930s by Philip Johnson and others. New building techniques, such as “post-and-beam” construction, allowed the International-style schemes to be realized on a small scale in open-plan houses with long walls of glass.
Materials developed for wartime use became available for domestic goods and were incorporated into mid-century modern furniture designs. Charles and Ray Eames and Eero Saarinen, who had experimented extensively with molded plywood, eagerly embraced fiberglass for pieces such as the La Chaise and the Womb chair, respectively.
Architect, writer and designer George Nelson created with his team shades for the Bubble lamp using a new translucent polymer skin and, as design director at Herman Miller, recruited the Eameses, Alexander Girard and others for projects at the legendary Michigan furniture manufacturer.
Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi devised chairs and tables built of wire mesh and wire struts. Materials were repurposed too: The Danish-born designer Jens Risom created a line of chairs using surplus parachute straps for webbed seats and backrests.
The Risom lounge chair was among the first pieces of furniture commissioned and produced by legendary manufacturer Knoll, a chief influencer in the rise of modern design in the United States, thanks to the work of Florence Knoll, the pioneering architect and designer who made the firm a leader in its field. The seating that Knoll created for office spaces — as well as pieces designed by Florence initially for commercial clients — soon became desirable for the home.
As the demand for casual, uncluttered furnishings grew, more mid-century furniture designers caught the spirit.
Classically oriented creators such as Edward Wormley, house designer for Dunbar Inc., offered such pieces as the sinuous Listen to Me chaise; the British expatriate T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings switched gears, creating items such as the tiered, biomorphic Mesa table. There were Young Turks such as Paul McCobb, who designed holistic groups of sleek, blond wood furniture, and Milo Baughman, who espoused a West Coast aesthetic in minimalist teak dining tables and lushly upholstered chairs and sofas with angular steel frames.
As the collection of vintage mid-century modern chairs, dressers, coffee tables and other furniture for the living room, dining room, bedroom and elsewhere on 1stDibs demonstrates, this period saw one of the most delightful and dramatic flowerings of creativity in design history.
Questions About Mid Century Formica
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024The difference between mid-century and mid-century modern comes down to specificity. When it comes to furniture and architecture, for example, mid-century refers to works that emerged during the middle of the 20th century, usually between 1950 and 1970. The more specific descriptor, mid-century modern, is used to refer to a particular style of design that emphasizes simplicity, organic forms and clean lines. Mid-century modern furniture designers generally drew on the architectural work of Frank Lloyd Wright, Bauhaus design, Scandinavian modernism and more. Any piece of furniture produced during the 1950s and ’60s can be referred to as mid-century, but only those with specific characteristics are mid-century modern. That said, when enthusiasts of furniture and architecture use the shorter of the two phrases, they may indeed be referring to modernist works created during that period in history. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of mid-century modern furniture.
- What is a mid-century sofa?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 26, 2021A mid-century sofa is any sofa created during the mid-20th century. Mid-century modern sofas are pieces of seating furniture that embody the venturesome attributes that we associate with mid-century modern furniture — while not all sofas designed in the mid-century modern style are the same, they frequently have a low profile and are characterized by gentle curves, clean lines and an organic shape. Mid-century furniture is a timeless classic due to its elegant simplicity. Shop a collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary mid-century sofas from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.
- Are the 1970s mid-century?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023No, the 1970s are generally not considered to fall within the era identified as mid-century. With respect to mid-century modern design, while there is some debate between collectors and design experts about the specific time period that saw the emergence of the style, most furniture enthusiasts agree that by the late 1960s, interest in MCM had largely declined. Writer Cara Greenberg, who coined the term “mid-century modernism,” suggests that “the period from the end of World War II to 1960 – from V-J Day to JFK – was the heyday of innovative furniture design in America.” Mid-century modern furniture is characterized by clean lines and inviting, organic shapes. Furniture makers of the era believed that good design was an essential part of good living. Find a variety of vintage mid-century modern furniture and decorative objects on 1stDibs.
- What is mid-century artwork?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Mid-century artwork is any piece of art produced during the middle of the 20th century. It includes paintings, drawings, prints, sculptures, collages, pottery and other media. You'll find a large selection of mid-century artwork from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- What is mid century decor?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Mid-century modern decor was popularized during the period of 1933 to 1965 but most would suggest that the style emerged during the years that followed World War II. This style of decor is typically characterized by sleek lines, organic forms, minimal ornamentation and high functionality. Find the finest mid-century modern furnishings and more on 1stDibs.
- What is mid century furniture?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Mid-century furniture is furniture created within the period of 1933 to 1965 but most would argue that the style began to emerge in the postwar years. This style of furniture is known for its sleek lines and organic shapes. The creators most frequently associated with mid-century modern furniture believed that good design meant good living. Mid-century modern is today by far the largest category of furnishings on 1stDibs.
- What is mid-century jewelry?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Mid-century jewelry is a style of jewelry that rose in popularity along with the mid-century modern design movement. Pieces from this era typically feature bold, geometric designs. Shop a variety of mid-century jewelry and accessories from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.
- What does mid century mean?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021The mid-century modern style emerged primarily in the years following World War II. This style of decor is characterized by sleek lines, organic forms, minimal ornamentation and high functionality. Creators of mid-century modern furniture believed that good design meant good living, and mid-century modern is today by far the largest category of furnishings on 1stDibs.
- What is a mid-century chair?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021A mid-century chair is a piece of seating furniture that was designed at any point during the middle of the 20th century. Mid-century modern furniture is characterized by pieces that were conceived and made in an energetic, optimistic spirit by creators who believed that good design was an essential part of good living. The mid-century period provided an excellent opportunity to experiment with both functional and decorative forms. Mid-century modern chairs were made with a variety of natural and synthetic materials, combining leather, wood, and cane with chrome, steel, and plastic. Shop a range of vintage mid-century chairs on 1stDibs today.
- Is Eames mid-century modern?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024Yes, Eames is mid-century modern. In many ways, Charles Eames and Ray Eames were the embodiment of the inventiveness, energy and optimism at the heart of mid-century modern American design, and they have been recognized as the most influential designers of the 20th century. Some of the couple's most famous mid-century modern designs include the Eames Lounge chair and ottoman, the Eames Molded Plywood chair and the Eames Fiberglass chair. Shop a wide range of Charles and Ray Eames furniture on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Mid century modern refers to the middle of the 20th century — specifically 1930s through the mid-1960s. This period represents a design and architecture movement characterized by simple shapes, clean lines, and organic materials. Some of the most famous mid century modern designers include Ray Eames, Charlotte Perriand, Isamu Noguchi and Eero Saarinen.
- 1stDibs ExpertMay 22, 2019
Mid-century modernism first appeared in 1945 and merged a minimalist aesthetic with practicality. Mid-century modern furniture is distinguishable by its lack of decoration or extravagance and its use of clean lines, organic curves and variety of natural materials.
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Mid century modern furniture refers to pieces designed during the middle of the 20th century — specifically 1930s through the mid-1960s. This period represents a design and architecture movement characterized by simple shapes, clean lines, and organic materials. Some of the most famous mid century modern designers include Ray Eames, Charlotte Perriand, Isamu Noguchi and Eero Saarinen. - 1stDibs ExpertMay 3, 2024The years between 1950 and 1960 are typically considered mid-century. Some people also include the 1970s in the definition. Remember that the term mid-century furniture refers to pieces produced during the middle of the 20th century. It is different from mid-century modern, the name for a furniture style that emerged primarily in the years following World War II and is characterized by pieces that were conceived and made in an energetic, optimistic spirit by creators who believed that good design was an essential part of good living. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of mid-century furniture.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 25, 2024The years that encompass the mid-century modern period are roughly 1933 until 1965, but most experts argue, however, that the mid-century modern era correlates specifically to the years following World War II. These years in America saw one of the most delightful and dramatic flowerings of creativity in design history. Vintage mid-century modern furniture — including tables, chairs, desks and case pieces — are often organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple.
Postwar architects and designers in the United States were animated by new ideas and new technology during the era of mid-century modernism. Materials developed for wartime use became available for domestic goods and were incorporated into mid-century furniture designs manufactured by the likes of Knoll and Herman Miller.
Charles and Ray Eames and Eero Saarinen, who had experimented extensively with molded plywood, eagerly embraced fiberglass for pieces such as the La Chaise and the Womb chair, respectively.
Knoll became a chief influencer in the rise of modern design in the United States, thanks to the work of Florence Knoll, the pioneering architect and designer who made the firm a leader in its field. The seating that Knoll created for office spaces soon became desirable for the home. Similarly, Michigan’s Herman Miller is best known for its iconic mid-century modern furniture, and while the company focused on the office, people loved its designs for their homes, too.
Find vintage mid-century modern furniture for sale on 1stDibs. - 1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023To tell if a chair is mid-century, look for labels and markings that indicate its maker. Then, use trusted online resources to determine when the company was active. A certified appraiser or experienced antiques dealer can be of assistance when dating chairs. Iconic mid-century modern furniture designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi. Find a variety of mid-century modern chairs on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023To tell if furniture is mid-century modern, examine the piece, looking for labels and markings that indicate who produced it. Then, consult trusted online resources to determine when the maker was active and what styles of furniture they made. Iconic mid-century modern furniture designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi. A knowledgeable dealer or certified appraiser can help you determine if a particular piece is genuine mid-century modern or a reproduction. Shop a range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.
- Is Mondrian mid century modern?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, Mondrian’s art is believed to be one of the great inspirations for the mid-century modern approach to minimalism. His artworks were not just a departure from figurative works, but a new look at abstract art as well. On 1stDibs, find a variety of original artwork from top artists.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023To identify mid-century lamps, look for a manufacturer's label or stamp on the base or the shade. You can use trusted online resources to determine when the company or artisan was active. Some lamps may also have a date stamp that you can use for identification purposes. Pieces dating from the late 1950s through the early 1970s are mid-century in terms of their age. A mid-century modern lamp will show off hallmarks of the design style, such as curvy hourglass or globe forms. A certified appraiser or experienced antiques dealer may also be able to help with the identification. Find a range of mid-century lamps on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Mid-century is considered the middle of the century, however as it pertains to furniture and design, mid-century is an American design movement known for its modern style, construction and the Modernist movement. It is typically simple and clean lines without embellishments. Shop a range of mid-century modern designs on 1stDIbs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Most experts agree that mid-century modern correlates specifically to the years following World War II. It has grown in popularity in the decades since, particularly due to the media and cultural institutions that have promoted the truly innovative era of design. Not only did the MoMA promote modern furniture, but pieces are prominently visible on the set of very popular television shows such as Mad Men. Shop a wide and beautiful range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.
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